Networking in Support of Central Texas Film & Entertainment Media

August 13, 2014

Merlin Works Improv Panel

It’s quite important to develop and exercise spontaneity in life. Let’s face it, if we don’t improvise, we get nowhere. Spontaneity and improvisation are of special concern to actors and performers, and the Network Austin Mixer is proud to offer some great insights into these important skill sets! How? Via our Guest Speakers on Wednesday August 13, 2014:Shana Merlin & Ted Rutherford!

Founder of Merlin Works, Shana Merlin, is one of the most experienced and effective improv teachers in Central Texas. The former Dean of The Heroes School of Improvisational Theatre, Shana has been an internationally touring performer and award-winning teacher since 1995. She has trained with some of the top teachers in the field of improvisation including Keith Johnstone, and members of Second City, The Annoyance, IO, The Groundlings and more.

With more than 20 years of performing and teaching experience, Ted Rutherford is a theatrical heavyweight. In the past, Ted has taught improvisation with the We Could Be Heroes School of Improvisation and has trained various corporate clients. For the last 7 years, Ted has performed with the Heroes of Comedy, Foolish Mortals, Vertigo Ramp and currently with Junk. Ted has a B.F.A. in Theatre from the University of Mississippi and a M.Ed. from the University of Montevallo.

Merlin Works‘ Award Winning Instructors have won Best Improv Teacher and Best Improv Class, Austin Critic’s Table Awards, B Iden Payne Awards, Best of the Fest at Frontera Fest, and Best Improv Troupe in The Austin Chronicle. Check out more about Merlin Works and their instructors.

So join us on Wednesday August 13 at the Baby A’s Central Location, have a cold margarita, network, meet new folks with like minds, enjoy a fun-filled evening meeting our attendees, and tap into the magic, the art and the training involved in improv offered by our Guest Speakers Shana Merlin & Ted Rutherford!

Who knows? You may even be part of the show!

Last Month…

We are proud to have had the one and only Robert (Bob) Hinkle as our Guest Speaker on Wednesday July 9th! Mr. Hinkle is a genuine legend in the entertainment business. Actor, writer, director, and dialogue coach are just a few of his titles. Visit Texas Bob online to see some of his accomplishments and pick up a copy of his book, “Call Me Lucky, A Texan in Hollywood” for a great reading experience. Bob’s insight into the business during the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s was not to be missed. Thank you, Bob!

Dean Reading interviewed Bob. Dean entered the entertainment business as a child actor, rode in rodeos, became a TV producer & director of the syndicated series, “Dale Berry’s Six Shooter Junction”, and hosts his own syndicated show, “Entertainment Clipboard”. Dean has also been an extras coordinator, location casting director, location scout and driver on film sets. Dean has taught advanced film acting, television production and film history. Thank you, Dean!

Let friends interested in the media worlds know about the Mixers. We put them on to provide opportunities for you to network and get information about acting, films, television, and other media.

NOTICE:PLEASE CARPOOL! Arrive early! If Baby Acapulco’s parking is full, you may park at either the Capital Inn (just north of Baby A’s) for $5 or at Super 8 motel (just south of Baby A’s) for $8. Be sure to pay the desk person at either motel when you park there so your vehicle doesn’t get towed off and DO NO PARK IN FRONT OF DUMPSTERS!